The New York Yankees started the 2024 MLB season as the top team in baseball, but their performance has sharply declined since the first two-and-a-half months. With the MLB trade deadline approaching, General Manager Brian Cashman is taking action.
Cashman, currently in Tampa assisting with MLB Draft preparations, visited Tropicana Field to watch the Yankees play the Rays and address the media. He acknowledged the team’s struggles, emphasizing their strong start and hoping they can overcome their current difficulties soon.
“It’s been tough for us,” Cashman admitted. “We need to be performing better as a cohesive unit right now.”
One standout disappointment this season is Gleyber Torres, who is in a contract year and has posted career-low numbers with a .223/.397/.344 slash line. Cashman highlighted Torres’s underperformance and indicated openness to acquiring a second baseman with better defensive capabilities if necessary.
The Yankees ideally aim to bolster their infield by the trade deadline, but viable options are limited. DJ LeMahieu, currently handling third base, has struggled with a .194/.288/.223 batting line since returning from injury, impacting the team’s offensive production negatively.
While Cashman didn’t delve into specific needs, he acknowledged their bullpen and infield could use improvement. Despite a solid season start by Clay Holmes, the bullpen ranks 17th in strikeouts per nine innings and lacks a reliable left-handed option, with Caleb Ferguson sporting a 5.46 ERA.
Looking ahead, potential trade targets for the Yankees include Tanner Scott, Mason Miller, and Michael Kopech, each identified as logical acquisitions in the coming weeks.
Regarding Torres’s slump, Cashman speculated it could be influenced by the impending free agency, suggesting he might be pressing to secure a strong contract.
In summary, the Yankees are navigating a challenging season transition, aiming to stabilize their roster through strategic trades as they strive to reclaim their earlier season dominance.
